Top 7 places to visit in Wichita, Kansas this summer

I grew up just east of Wichita, and my whole life that has been the place we go to for a good dinner, a Saturday shopping trip, or for any other entertainment we might want. So after 19 years of living here, here are a few places I suggest going if you are ever here:

1. Doo Dah Diner

Doo Dah is the nickname for the city of Wichita, but it also happens to be one of the best known breakfast places in the city. Even sportscasters can't get enough of it and talk about how much they look forward to eating there when they come to town. The best part, if you go there at the right time, every table gets free monkey bread before your meal!

2. The Sedgwick County Zoo

Even at 19 years old, I still think that our zoo is pretty great. I've even been to the San Diego Zoo and think the one we have here is better. Plus, it's a great way to get outside and walk around while looking at a bunch of animals.

3. Starlight Drive-In

I love that I have access to a drive-in theatre, especially because they have gone almost extinct. Being able to go and watch three movies for the price of one is amazing, and sometimes they even have carload prices so an entire group of friends can go for just $12.

4. Shave Ice Hut

This one isn't actually in Wichita, but in a neighboring town called Andover. It's my favorite place to get shaved ice, and it's always my first one of the summer every year. I've gone every summer since I was a little kid, so I am definitely not stopping now.

5. Keeper of the Plains

Probably what Wichita is most known for is our Keeper of the Plains, a large statue on the Arkansas River. You are able to go and walk up to and around it and learn about its meaning and history, as well as walk along side the river where there are lots of memorials and art to admire.

6. Old Town

Old Town Wichita is full of little shops and restaurants and museums for tourists to go to. The theatre down there even has a special on Wednesday nights that offered movies for only $5, which is basically half off!

7. Public at the Brickyard

Public at the Brickyard is a local farm to table restaurant with amazing food! My dad and I first discovered it a few years back, and I have since introduced it to my friends and family who all come back and say that they love it.